Archery bow mounting systems with integrated brackets

ABSTRACT

A portable archery bow apparatus can be transported to any of a plurality of locations to contact the ground and to provide support and stability while firing an arrow from the bow apparatus. The apparatus includes a bow and includes a support pole attached to a side of the bow. The bottom of the pole rests on the ground while the bow is utilized to fire an arrow. The pole permits the bow to be tilted fore and aft, and from side to side while the bow is positioned to fire an arrow from the bow.

This application is a continuation-in-part of and claims priority basedon the U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/481,574, filed Jun. 10, 2009.

The present invention relates generally to devices and methods forassisting archery bow hunters in making accurate shots while hunting.Generally, in accordance with various exemplary embodiments of thepresent invention, the present invention discloses various archery bowmounting systems each similar in that they include a bracket integratedwith an archery bow and include a support element coupled to the archerybow by the bracket. Most preferably, each archery bow mounting system isconfigured to give a bow hunter stability and range of motion whenaiming an archery bow. The mounting system also provides a hunter withincreased stability when firing an archery bow. The support element cancomprise a monopod, bipod, tripod, etc. that is fixed in length oradjustable in length.

Archery bow hunting has become increasingly popular. While hunting, anarchery bow hunter, in order to produce an accurate shot, performssimultaneously several different actions. First, the hunter uses onehand to hold the bow at full arm extension while drawing the bowstringwith the other hand to the full extension of the bowstring. Second, thehunter then continues to hold the bowstring at full extension whilealigning the sighting device on the bow with a target animal. Finally,the archer releases the bowstring while attempting to hold the bowsteady and level until the arrow has exited the arrow rest on the bow.

Even experienced bow hunters can find it difficult to hold an archerybow steady while shooting an arrow. One reason holding a bow steady canbe difficult is that the bow can be relatively heavy and weigh upwardsof ten to fifteen pounds. Further, accessories mounted on the bow canalter the balance of the bow. Historically, various bow—stabilizingdevices have been provided to assist in balancing an archery bow or incontrolling the bow while the bow is used to shoot an arrow. See U.S.Pat. Nos. 3,589,350; 4,135,486; 4,491,123; 4,570,608; 4,907,567;5,273,022; and 6,817,352. Such bow stabilizing devices include weightingdevices that are attached to a bow to assist in balancing a bow andinclude support apparatus which is attached to an archery bow and whichrests on the ground and provides support for the bow while the bow isused to fire an arrow. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,240,211; 7,047,960; 7,347,402,and US Patent Application 2005/0076896 disclose support elements forresting an archery bow on the ground.

The prior art also discloses a variety of archery bow stands. Suchstands are used to releasably store an archery bow prior to the bowbeing used to fire an arrow. When a hunter wishes to utilize the storedbow, the hunter removes the bow from the bow stand and, when the bow isseparate from the bow stand, uses the bow to fire an arrow. When anarchery bow is in a bow stand, the bow normally can not, practicallyspeaking, be used to fire an arrow. See U.S. Pat. No. 5,205,272,;5,547,162, 5,619,981, 9,957,648, 6,749,170 and 7,314,199. U.S. Pat. No.5,630,568 illustrates apparatus to stake an archery bow to a tree.

There are many different archery bow designs and different apparatusthat can be mounted on an archery bow. This can require a stabilizationdevice or bow stand to be specially designed in order to adapt to aparticular archery bow and to the configuration of equipment mounted onthe archery bow. Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide anarchery bow mounting system which could couple to more than one archerybow design and to more than one configuration of a bow when auxiliaryequipment is mounted on the bow. Also desirable is an archery bowmounting system which stabilizes an archery bow and permits the bow tobe moved through a wide range of motion to position the bow prior toreleasing an arrow from the bow. A mounting system which stabilizes thebow during firing is also desirable. Such a support system would alsominimize physical fatigue associated with manipulating the bow and withholding the bow in a desired position and orientation prior to andduring the release of an arrow from the bow.

Therefore, the present invention provides devices and methods to assistan archery bow hunter in making accurate shots with an arrow whilehunting in any kind of terrain. Various universal archery bow mountingsystems are, accordingly, provided to couple a support structure to anarchery bow. Such mounting systems can be integrated in an archery bowby forming a bracket or other system component as a part of the bow orriser, or by providing means to detachably mount a bracket or othersystem component on an archery bow. In one embodiment of the invention,the support structure can, as noted, comprise a monopod which can be asubstantially unitary member having a fixed length, or can be anadjustable member which permits the length of the monopod to be variedas desired: In another embodiment of the invention, the supportstructure comprises a bipod, tripod, etc. Each leg of such a bipod,tripod, etc. can be fixed in length or can be adjustable to vary thelength of the leg.

In the event a monopod, bipod, etc. is, in accordance with theinvention, mounted at the front of an archery bow, a bracket is providedto facilitate such a mount. In the event a monopod, bipod, etc. is, inaccordance with the invention, mounted at the side of an archery bow, abracket is provided to facilitate such a mount. If desired, inaccordance with another embodiment of the invention, a bracket isprovided which can mount a support structure either at the front or atthe side of a bow. Preferably, but not necessarily, each bracketprovided in accordance with the invention can, since the shape ofdimension of prior art archery bows varies, be mounted on more than onearchery bow design or configuration.

One important objective of the invention is to enable an archery bow tobe manipulated through a wide range of motion. Such a range of motionpreferably encompasses rotating an archery bow about one or moregenerally vertically oriented axes, rotating an archery bow about one ormore generally horizontally oriented axes, tilting a bow forwardly andrearwardly, and tilting the bow from side to side, particularly withrespect to uneven ground.

A more complete understanding of the present invention, however, maybest be obtained by referring to the detailed description whenconsidered in connection with the drawing figures, wherein like numeralsdenote like elements and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a side elevation view illustrating one typical archery bowused for hunting and target practice;

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an archery bowmounting system including a monopod positioned at the front of anarchery bow;

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the mounting systemof FIG. 2 integrated with an archery bow of the kind illustrated in FIG.1;

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view illustrating another archery bowmounting system including a monopod positioned at the side of an.archery bow;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view further illustrating the bracket utilizedin the mounting system of FIG. 4;

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the integration ofthe mounting system of FIG. 4 with an archery bow of the kindillustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view illustrating still anothermounting system constructed in accordance with the invention andincluding a monopod positioned at the side of an archery bow;

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the integration ofthe mounting system of FIG. 6 with an archery bow of the kindillustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view illustrating yet another archerybow mounting system constructed in accordance with the invention andincluding a bipod positioned at the front of an archery bow;

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the integration ofthe mounting system of FIG. 8 with an archery bow of the kindillustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view illustrating yet still anothermounting system constructed in accordance with the invention andintegrated with an archery bow of the kind illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a bracket assemblyconstructed in accordance with an alternate embodiment of the invention.

In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, provided is aportable archery bow apparatus for transport to any of a plurality oflocations to contact the ground at a selected point to provide supportand stability while firing an arrow from the bow apparatus. The bowapparatus comprises a portable bow unit. The bow unit comprises acentral riser. The central riser has an upper portion; a lower portion;a front and a rear; and, a pair of sides. The unit also comprises a handgrip on the central riser; a first upper limb connected to and extendingoutwardly from the upper portion of said riser; a second lower limbconnected to and extending outwardly from the lower portion of theriser; and, rotatable members each mounted on one of the limbs andselected from a group consisting of wheels and cams. The bow apparatusalso comprises only a single portable ground contacting support pole tocontact the ground to provide stability while firing an arrow from thebow unit; and, a first mounting bracket below the hand grip andintermediate the hand grip and the second lower limb. The first mountingbracket supports the portable support pole; fixedly attaches theportable support pole directly to the central riser and spaced apartfrom the central riser such that the bow unit and the portable supportpole move simultaneously in unison with the portable support poleremaining in fixed orientation with respect to the bow; and, provides afirst stabilizing fixed point of attachment for the portable supportpole, such that the portable support pole is positioned substantiallycompletely beneath the hand grip and extends downwardly past the secondlower limb.

In another embodiment of the invention, provided is a portable archerybow apparatus for transport to any of a plurality of locations tocontact the ground at a selected point to provide support and stabilitywhile firing an arrow from the bow apparatus. The bow apparatuscomprises a portable bow unit comprising a central riser having an upperportion, a lower portion, a front and a rear, and a pair of sides; ahand grip on the central riser; a first upper limb connected to andextending outwardly from the upper portion of the riser; a second lowerlimb connected to and extending outwardly from the lower portion of theriser; and, rotatable members each mounted on one of the limbs andselected from a group consisting of wheels and cams. The bow apparatusalso comprises only a single portable ground contacting support pole tocontact the ground to provide stability while firing an arrow from thebow unit; and, a first mounting bracket below the hand grip andintermediate the hand grip and the second lower limb. The first mountingbracket supports the portable support pole; fixedly attaches theportable support pole directly to the central riser and spaced apartfrom the central riser such that the bow unit and the portable supportpole move simultaneously in unison with the portable support poleremaining in fixed orientation with respect to the bow; and, provides afirst stabilizing fixed point of attachment for the portable supportpole, such that the portable support pole is positioned substantiallycompletely beneath the hand grip and extends downwardly past the secondlower limb. The bow apparatus also comprises a pole stabilizationconfiguration comprising an elongate arm interconnecting the supportpole and the first mounting bracket.

In a further embodiment of the invention, provided is a portable archerybow apparatus for transport to any of a plurality of locations tocontact the ground at a selected point to provide support and stabilitywhile firing an arrow from the bow apparatus. The bow apparatuscomprises a portable bow unit comprising a central riser having an upperportion, a lower portion, a front and a rear, and a pair of sides; ahand grip on the central riser; a first upper limb connected to andextending outwardly from the upper portion of the riser; a second lowerlimb connected to and extending outwardly from the lower portion of saidriser; and, rotatable members each mounted on one of the limbs andselected from a group consisting of wheels and cams. The bow apparatusalso comprises only a single portable ground contacting support pole tocontact the ground to provide stability while firing an arrow from thebow unit; and, a first mounting bracket below the hand grip andintermediate the hand grip and the lower limb. The first mountingbracket supports the portable support pole; fixedly attaches theportable support pole directly to the central riser such that theportable support pole is spaced apart from the central riser, and thebow unit and the pole move simultaneously in unison with the portablesupport pole remaining in fixed orientation with respect to the bow;and, provides a first stabilizing fixed point of attachment for saidpole such that the portable support pole is positioned substantiallycompletely beneath the hand grip and extends downwardly past the secondlower limb. The bow apparatus also includes a second mounting bracket.The second mounting bracket fixedly attaches the portable support poledirectly to the lower portion of the central riser at a point below andspaced apart from the first mounting bracket to provide a second fixedstabilizing point of attachment for the pole, and spaced apart from thecentral riser, such that said bow unit and said portable support polemove simultaneously in unison; and, provides a second stabilizing fixedpoint of attachment for the portable support pole such that the pole ispositioned substantially beneath the hand grip and extends downwardlypast the second lower limb.

In still another embodiment of the invention, provided is a portablearchery bow apparatus for transport to any of a plurality of locationsto contact the ground at a selected point to provide support andstability while firing an arrow from the bow apparatus. The bowapparatus comprises a portable bow unit comprising a central riserhaving an upper portion, a lower portion, a front and a rear, and a pairof sides; a hand grip on the central riser; a first upper limb connectedto and extending outwardly from the upper portion of the riser; a secondlower limb connected to and extending outwardly from said lower portionof said riser; and rotatable members each mounted on one of the limbsand selected from a group consisting of wheels and cams. The bowapparatus also comprises only a single portable ground contactingsupport pole to contact the ground to provide stability while firing anarrow from the bow unit; a first mounting bracket below the hand gripand intermediate the hand grip and the lower limb. The mounting bracketsupports the portable support pole; fixedly attaches the portablesupport pole directly to the central riser such that the portablesupport pole is spaced apart from the central riser, and the bow unitand the pole move simultaneously in unison with the portable supportpole remaining in fixed orientation with respect to the bow; and,provides a first stabilizing fixed point of attachment for the pole suchthat the portable support pole is positioned substantially completelybeneath the hand grip and extends downwardly past the second lower limb.The bow apparatus also comprises a pole stabilization configurationcomprising an elongate arm interconnecting the first mounting bracketand the support pole to provide for the support pole at the elongate arma second fixed stabilizing point of attachment. The bow apparatus alsocomprises a second mounting bracket fixedly attaching the elongate armdirectly to the lower portion of the central riser at a point below andspaced apart from the first mounting bracket and the central riser toprovide for the arm at the second mounting bracket a third fixedstabilizing point of attachment to stabilize the pole such that the bowunit and the portable support pole move simultaneously in unison, andthe pole is positioned substantially beneath the hand grip and extendsdownwardly past the second lower limb.

The detailed description of the invention herein shows various exemplaryembodiments and the best modes known to the inventors. These exemplaryembodiments and modes are described in sufficient detail to enable thoseskilled in the art to practice the invention and are not intended tolimit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention in anyway. Rather, the following disclosure is intended to teach both theimplementation of the exemplary embodiments and modes and any equivalentmodes or embodiments that are known or obvious to those of reasonableskill in the art. Additionally, all included figures are non-limitingillustrations of the exemplary embodiments and modes, which similarlyavail themselves to any equivalent modes or embodiments that are knownor obvious to those of reasonable skill in the art.

A standard archery bow 100 is illustrated in FIG. 1 and has a centralriser 2. Central riser 2 comprises the intermediate section of the bowand terminates at either end where each of the limbs is attached vialimb bolts 3. Accessories can be attached to the archery bow at anydesired location but typically are mounted on the central riser 2. Eachlimb 3A, 3B is connected to central riser 2 by a different one of limbbolts 3. A wheel, or cam, 5 is rotatably mounted on the distal end ofeach one of limbs 3A, 3B. Tensioned archery string 4 extends between andaround wheels 5. Central riser 2 includes hand grip 6 positioned justbelow the mid-point of riser 2. Bushing 7 is positioned below andadjacent hand grip 6. Bushing 7 is an externally threaded bushing whichis turned into an aperture formed in riser 2. Bushing 7 also includes aninternally threaded 5/16, #24 aperture 68 (FIG. 3) formed therein andpositioned on the front of riser 2 of bow 100. Bushing 7 is commonlytermed a stabilizer bushing and is used to mount on the bow a stabilizerdevice, a support element, fishing line and reel, tracking string, orany other desired device or attachment.

As referenced above, the configuration and architecture of each archerybow varies from one bow manufacturer to another as well as the result ofpersonal modifications made by archers to their bows. For example, theshape and size of main body 1 typically varies from one archery bowmanufacturer to another and varies between different models produced bythe same manufacturer. As a result, the shape of the central riser 2,the position of the limb bolts, the position and shape of hand grip 6,and the position of the stabilizer bushing 7 can vary from one archerybow manufacturer to another and can vary between different modelsproduced by the same manufacturer. Consequently, stabilization deviceswhich are intended to be attached to an archery bow often mustcompensate for different bow designs by being specially configured toattach to each particular bow.

In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, FIG. 2 illustrates amounting system 8 adapted for attachment to different bow designs. Thesystem 8 includes a bracket assembly including unitary bracket 9provided for integration with an archery bow; and includes a monopodsupport assembly including monopod support element, or pole, 10. Bracket9 is operatively associated with the monopod support assembly to mountpole 10 on bracket 9.

The bracket assembly also includes externally threaded bolt or fastener14. Bolt 14 extends through ovate aperture 13 and turn into aninternally threaded aperture 68 (FIG. 3) formed in stabilizer bushing 7to couple and fixedly detachably secure bracket 9 to bushing 7. Ovateaperture 13 permits the position of bracket 9 on bushing 7 to beslidably adjusted laterally in the manner indicated by arrows F and G inFIG. 2. Once bracket 9 is slidably adjusted to a desired position, bolt14 is used to tighten bracket 9 in the desired position.

Bracket 9 includes outwardly extending leg, or extension, 15. Extension15 includes spaced apart elongate parallel slots 63 and 65 formed ineither side of extension 15 and laterally from elongate slot 64.

Bracket 9 is shaped and dimensioned to be integrated and coupled withriser 2 and be mounted on stabilizer bushing 7 (FIG. 1). Bracket 9 isoperatively associated with the monopod support assembly to mount pole10 on bracket 9 in a selected fixed position.

The monopod support assembly also includes internally threaded collarelement “ce”, orthogonal member 60, and externally threaded fastener 18.

Member 60 includes aperture 16 and at least a pair of internallythreaded apertures 61. Each aperture 61 receives one of a pair ofexternally threaded fasteners 62. Each fastener 62 extends through slot63, and into one of apertures 61. The position of member 60 in slot 64is slidably adjusted therealong. The position of member 60 in slot 64 isfixed when each fastener 62 is inserted through slot 63 and is turnedand tightened in an aperture 61.

Element “ce” is configured to mount fixedly on or in the upper end ofpole 10. Fastener 18 extends through aperture 16 and turns into collarelement ce.

Although any desired construct can be utilized to provide additionalsupport and stabilization for pole 10, at present three separatesupplemental pole stabilization configurations are presently preferredin the practice of the invention.

Pole Stabilization Configuration No. 1

The first pole stabilization configuration basically utilizes elongatearm 35 in conjunction with collar element 66 and bracket 8. Fasteners 62each extend through an opening 69 formed in the upper end of arm 35,through slot 63, and into an aperture 61 formed in orthogonal member 60.Collar element 66 is mounted on an intermediate portion of pole 10. Anexternally threaded fastener 21A extends through slot 38 (or some otheropening formed through the lower end of arm 35) and turns into aninternally threaded opening 66A formed in collar element 66.

In the first pole stabilization configuration, pole 10 is anchored tothe riser 2 of bow 100 only via bracket 9. The lower end of arm 35 isnot connected to bow 100, nor is pole 10 connected to bow 100 at asecond point separate from the point at which bracket 9 is connected toriser 2.

The first pole stabilization configuration is also illustrated in FIGS.6 and 7 in conjunction with bracket 24A.

Pole Stabilization Configuration No. 2

The second pole stabilization configuration secures pole 10 to bow 100at a second attachment point on riser 2 which is located below andspaced apart from bracket 9. Pole Stabilization Configuration No. 2 doesnot utilize arm 35, collar element 66, or fastener 21A. Instead, PoleStabilization Configuration No. 2 utilizes brackets 19 and 20 andfastener 21 and limb bolt 3. Fastener 21 extends through apertures inbrackets 20 and 19 to attach bracket 19 to bracket 20. Limb bolt 3extends through an aperture in bracket 20 (which aperture is concealedbehind the lower end of arm 35 in FIG. 2) to attach bracket 20 to riser2, or, to attach bracket 20 to any other desired location on the lowerriser of bow 100. As would be appreciated by those of skill in the art,a fastener other than limb bolt 3 can be utilized to secure bracket 20to riser 2.

Pole Stabilization Configuration No. 3

The third pole stabilization configuration basically utilizes elongatearm 35 in conjunction with a bracket 20 and with collar element 66.Fasteners 62 each extend through an opening 69 formed in the upper endof arm, through slot 63, and into an aperture 61 formed in orthogonalmember 60. The lower end of arm 35 is connected to riser mountingbracket 20 by an externally threaded fastener 21 or 21A. Fastener 21also extends into internally threaded aperture 66A formed in collarelement member 66. Collar element 66 is mounted on an intermediateportion of pole 10 at a location spaced apart from bracket 9. Bracket 20is connected to riser 2 by an externally threaded limb bolt 3, or isotherwise connected to riser 2. An alternate embodiment of the inventionattaches collar element 66 at the lower end of arm 35 and attachesbracket 20 to arm 35 at a point intermediate the lower end of arm 35 andbracket 9. Bracket 20 is used to connect arm 35 to riser 2 to helpanchor pole 10 to the riser.

In the third pole stabilization configuration, both the lower end of arm35 and pole 10 are anchored to riser 2 at a point spaced apart frombracket 9.

As would be appreciated by those of skill in the art, the variousbrackets 20 or collar elements 66 utilized to secure the lower end ofarm 35 to pole 10 or to riser 2, or to secured pole 10 to the lower endof arm 35, can be shaped and dimensioned as desired.

The bracket assembly, monopod support assembly, and, if desired one ofthe pole stabilization configuration noted above are, in the mannerdescribed above, used to adjustably fixedly attach pole 10 to an archerybow in a selected fixed position. The particular fixed position of pole10 with respect to an archery bow can, as noted, be adjusted by slidablypositioning orthogonal member 60 along slot 64 to move pole 10 toward oraway from the from the front of the bow. Once, however, a desiredposition is selected and member 60 is secured in that position, pole 10is in a fixed position such that pole 10 moves in unison andsimultaneously with the bow, i.e., the pole 10 and bow tilt or rotatesimultaneously together through the same arc and at the same rate orspeed. When the lower end 70 of pole 10 is placed on the ground, pole 10supports the archery bow and, at the same time, provides an archer withfreedom to move the bow through wide ranges of motion. For example, thebow can be rotated about the longitudinal vertical axis of pole 10 inthe manner indicated by arrow A in FIG. 3, wherein the bow and pole 10rotate simultaneously about said axis. And, the bow can, simultaneouslywith pole 10, be tilted forwardly in the manner indicated by arrow C inFIG. 3, be tilted rearwardly in the manner indicated by arrow B in FIG.3, be tilted to one side as indicated by arrow D, to the other side asindicated by arrow E, etc. The freedom of movement accorded by themounting system 8 facilitates an archer in aiming the bow, in holdingthe bow in a drawn position, and in improving the accuracy of an arrowfired from the bow.

The mounting system 8 is comprised of relatively small lightweightcomponents, and pole 10 can be fabricated from aluminum, from carbonfiber, from a polymer, or from some other lightweight material.Consequently, mounting system 8 is, by its nature, lightweight andfacilitates a hunter or archer carrying a bow with the mounting system 8installed on the bow.

Utilization of the pole stabilization assembly 11 is optional. Althoughassembly 11 further stabilizes pole 10, the invention of FIG. 2 can beemployed without utilizing assembly 11.

Bracket 9 is shaped and dimensioned to couple with and be mounted onstabilizer bushing 7 (FIG. 1). Bracket 9 includes a pair 71, 72 of flatinner planar faces which co-terminate. Faces 71, 72 presently areperpendicular to one another, although the angle between faces 71 and 72can vary as desired and can greater or less than ninety degrees. Thelength, indicated by reference character 12, of face 71 can vary asdesired but is selected to provide a contact surface area between face71 and a side of riser 2 sufficient to provide, when bracket 9 ismounted on riser 2, reasonable stability and rigidity between pole 10and the bow. Similarly, the length, indicated by reference character “a”in FIG. 2, of face 72 can vary as desired but is selected to provide acontact surface area between face 72 and the front of riser 2 or bushing7 sufficient to provide, when bracket 9 is mounted on the bow,reasonable stability and rigidity between pole 10 and the bow. When thelower end, or foot, 70 of pole 10 rests on the ground, pole 10 supportsthe weight of the archery bow mounted on top of pole 10. Further, whenlower end 70 rests on the ground, the weight or movement of the archerybow and the resistance of the ground to any movement of lower end 70 canproduce a torque force which operates to bend pole 10 and which operatesto loosen bracket 9 from points of contact with bushing 7. Theconstruction of bracket 9 and the surface areas of faces 71 and 72 aredesigned to insure that under normal operational parameters bracket 9remains in fixed position and in contact with a side of riser 2 andrespect to the front of riser 2 or to bushing 7 while the archery bow ismanipulated and then held in fixed position to aim and fire,respectively, an arrow from the bow.

The shape and dimension of fastener 14 and slot 13 can vary as desired.Currently slot 13 has a length in the range of about 5/16 inch to oneand a half inches, more preferably about one-half to one inch. Mostpreferably slot 13 has a length of about three-quarters of an inch.Fastener 14 presently comprises a 5/16, #24 stabilizer bolt. The heightof ovate slot 13 can vary as necessary to receive a fastener having agiven diameter.

The width, indicated by the bracket associated with reference character“a” in FIG. 2, of face 72 is in the range of three-quarters to about twoand one-half inches, and preferably about seven-eights of an inch to twoinches. More preferably, the width of face 72 is about one inch.

If desired, bracket 9 need not include an adjustable extension 15 whichpermits the position of pole 10 to be adjusted toward or away from thefront of a bow. Instead, the pole 10 can be attached to bracket 9 atonly a single non-adjustable location.

When an adjustable extension 15 is provided in bracket 9, the length ofextension 15 can vary as desired, and extension 15 is shaped anddimensioned to permit pole 10 to be positioned along extension 15 suchthat pole 10 clears main body 1 and limb bolts 3. Currently, the overalllength of extension 15 is in the range of about two to ten inches, andpreferably in the range of about four to eight inches. More preferably,the length of extension 15 is about six inches.

The diameter, or width, of pole 10 can vary as desired but is presentlyin the range of about one-half to one inch, preferably aboutfive-eighths to seven-eighths of an inch. More preferably, the presentdiameter of pole 10 is about three-fourths of an inch.

The length of pole 10 can vary as desired but is presently in the rangeof about eighteen inches to about five feet, preferably about two feetto three feet. More preferably, pole 10 currently has a length of aboutthirty-four inches.

As noted, any pole 10 utilized in any embodiment of the inventiondescribed herein can be provided in an adjustable or non-adjustableconfiguration. Adjustable configurations include telescoping poles, apole with a shock mechanism (gas, air, etc.) or spring mechanismincorporated therein, and any other configuration such as, for example,a spring lock which permits the length of pole 10 to vary or beadjusted. Various adjustable telescoping pole constructions are wellknown in the art and are not further detailed herein.

In order to better distribute the weight supported by lower end 70 whenlower end 70 is set on the ground, the size or “foot print” of lower end70 can be expanded as desired such that the size of the surface arearesting on and contacting the ground is increased.

In FIG. 3, bracket 9 is secured to the front of archery bow 100 byinserting externally threaded fastener 14 through ovate aperture 13 ofbracket 9 and by then turning the distal end of fastener 14 intointernally aperture 68 of stabilizer bushing 7 to fixedly detachablysecure bracket 9 to the front of bow 100. Pole 10 can be attached tobracket 9 prior to or after bracket 9 is secured to the front of bow100. When bracket 9 is secured to the front of bow 100, faces 71 and 72contact, are flush with, and are securely maintained in contact with aside of riser 2 and with the front of riser 2 or stabilizer bushing 7.Prior to tightening fastener 14 to secure bracket 9 to bushing 7,bracket can be slid laterally over fastener 14 to adjust the position ofbracket 9 so that faces 71 and 72 each contact riser 2 and in essencebound and frame one side and the front of riser 2.

In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, FIGS. 4 and 4Aillustrate a mounting system 23 adapted for attachment to different bowdesigns. The system 23 includes a bracket assembly including unitarymounting bracket 24 provided for integration with an archery bow; andincludes a monopod support assembly including monopod support element,or pole, 10. Bracket 24 is operatively associated with the monopodsupport assembly to mount pole 10 on bracket 24.

The bracket assembly of FIGS. 4 and 4A also includes externally threadedbolt or hand nut 28. Bolt 28 extends through ovate aperture 27 and turnsinto an aperture 68 (FIG. 3) formed in stabilizer bushing 7 to couplebracket 24 to bushing 7 at the front of an archery bow 100. Ovateaperture 27 permits the position of bracket 24 on bushing 7 to beslidably adjusted laterally in the same manner that bracket 9 isadjusted as indicated by arrows F and G in FIG. 2. One advantage ofovate aperture 27 (and ovate aperture 13) is that it permits bracket 24to be adjusted laterally to accommodate various central riser widths.Once bracket 24 is slidably adjusted to a desired position, fastener 28is used to tighten bracket 24 in the desired position in which bracket24 bounds and frames the front and one side of riser 2.

Bracket 24 is shaped and dimensioned to couple and be integrated withriser 2 and be mounted on stabilizer bushing 7 (FIG. 1). Bracket 24 isoperatively associated with the monopod support assembly of FIGS. 4 and4A to mount pole 10 on bracket 24 in a selected fixed position at theside of an archery bow.

The monopod support assembly of FIGS. 4 and 4A can also, if desiredinclude a collar element 25 and externally threaded fastener 29. Collarelement 25 is slidably inserted in the upper end of hollow pole 10 andfixedly secured therein with adhesive, with a fastener, by welding, etc.Fastener 29 is inserted through aperture 31 and turned into internallythreaded aperture 30 to secure fixedly collar element 25 and pole 10 tobracket 24, and therefore to an archery bow 100 on which bracket 24 ismounted. Collar element 25 includes a ledge or lip “s”. The lower edgeof bracket 24 seats on ledge “s”; this prevents pole 10 from rotatingabout fastener 29 and from rotating with respect to bracket 24. Pole 10can, if desired, be directly attached to bracket 24 without utilizingcollar element 25.

The mounting system 23 is, as is mounting system 8, comprised ofrelatively small lightweight components, and pole 10 can be fabricatedfrom aluminum, from carbon fibers, from a polymer, or from some otherlightweight material. Consequently, mounting system 23 is, by itsnature, lightweight and facilitates a hunter or archer carrying a bowwith the mounting system 23 installed on the bow.

Bracket 24 is shaped and dimensioned to couple with and be mounted onriser 2 and stabilizer bushing 7 (FIG. 1). Bracket 24 includes a pair81, 82 of flat inner planar faces which co-terminate. Faces 81, 82presently are perpendicular to one another, although the angle betweenfaces 81 and 82 can, as was the case with faces 71 and 72, vary asdesired and can be greater or less than ninety degrees. The length,indicated by reference character 26, of face 81 can vary as desired butis selected to provide a contact surface area between face 81 and a sideof riser 2 sufficient to provide reasonable stability and rigiditybetween pole 10 and the bow. In one embodiment of the invention thelength of face 81 (or face 71) is about equivalent to the depth of riser2, which depth extends from the front of riser 2 to the rear of riser 2.The length of face 81 is in the range of one to five inches, preferablyone and one-half inches to two inches.

Similarly, the length, indicated by reference character “c” in FIG. 4,of face 82 can vary as desired but is selected to provide a contactsurface area between face 82 and the front of riser 2 or bushing 7sufficient to provide reasonable stability and rigidity between pole 10and the bow. The length of face 82 is in the range of about one andone-half to three inches. More preferably, the length of face 82 isabout one inch.

Regardless of the shape and dimension and size and orientation of faces81 and 82, it (as is the case with faces 71 and 72 and bracket 9) isdesired that, when bracket 24 is mounted on a bow 100, each face 81 and82 contacts and is flush either (1) with a side of riser 2 (as is thecase for face 81) or (2) with the front of riser 2 or with bushing 7 (asis the case for face 82).

The overall width, indicated by dimension “d” in FIG. 4A, of bracket 24is in the range of one inch to five inches, preferably one and one-halfto three inches. More preferably, the overall length of bracket 24 isabout two and one-quarter inches. The width “d” (FIG. 4A) is sufficientsuch that pole 10 is spaced apart from riser 2 and clears the lower limb3B as pole 10 extends downwardly past lower limb 3B toward the ground.Lower end 70 of pole 10 normally rests on the ground when an archer isaiming and firing bow 100.

When the lower end, or foot, 70 of pole 10 rests on the ground, pole 10supports the weight of an archery bow 100 mounted on top of pole 10.Further, when lower end 70 rests on the ground, the weight or movementof the archery bow and the resistance of the ground to any movement oflower end 70 can produce a torque force which operate to bend pole 10and which operates to loosen bracket 24 from points of contact withbushing 7. The construction of bracket 24 and the surface areas of faces81 and 82 are designed to insure that under normal operationalparameters bracket 24 remains in fixed position and contacts a side ofriser 2 and the front of riser 2 or bushing 7 while the archery bow isfirst manipulated to aim the bow and is then held in fixed position tofire, respectively, an arrow from the bow.

The shape and dimension of fastener 28 and slot 27 can, as was the casewith fastener 14 and slot 13, vary as desired. The current and preferreddimensions of fastener 28 and slot 27 are equivalent to those discussedwith reference to fastener 14 and slot 13.

The diameter and length of pole 10 can vary as desired, but isequivalent to those earlier discussed with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.The length of pole 10 as used in the embodiment of the invention setforth in FIGS. 4 and 4A may, as earlier discussed with reference toFIGS. 2 and 3, be adjustable or non-adjustable, which is the case withrespect to any archery bow support pole 10, 44 (in a monopod, bipod,tripod, etc.) in any of the embodiments of the invention set forthherein.

When mounting system 23 is placed on a bow 100 in the manner suggestedin FIG. 5 and lower end 70 of pole 10 in FIG. 4 is placed on the ground,pole 10 supports the archery bow 100 and, at the same time, provides anarcher with freedom to move the bow 100 through wide ranges of motion.For example, the bow can be rotated about the longitudinal vertical axisof pole 10 in the same manner as that indicated by arrow A in FIG. 3,wherein the bow and pole 10 rotate simultaneously about said axis. And,the bow can, simultaneously with pole 10 in FIG. 4, be tilted forwardlyin the same manner indicated by arrow C in FIG. 3, be tilted rearwardlyin the same manner indicated by arrow B in FIG. 3, be tilted to one sideas the same manner indicated by arrow D in FIG. 3, be tilted to theother side in the same manner indicated by arrow E in FIG. 3, etc. Beingable to move an archery bow in this fashion enables an archer both tomanipulate the three dimensional orientation of the bow and to vary theheight of the bow above the ground. The freedom of movement accorded bythe mounting system 23 (or by mounting system 8) facilitates an archerpositioning a bow prior to holding the bow in a selected fixed positionand firing an arrow from the bow while it is in the selected fixedposition.

In FIG. 5, bracket 24 is secured to the front of a bow 100 by insertingexternally threaded fastener 28 through aperture 27 and turning thedistal end of fastener 28 into internally threaded aperture 68 ofbushing 7 of bow 100. Pole 10 is secured to bracket 24 before or afterbracket 24 is secured to the front of bow 100. When bracket 24 issecured to bushing 7 at the front of bow 100, faces 81 and 82 contact,are flush with, and are securely maintained in contact with a side ofriser 2 (i.e., face 81) and the front of riser 2 or bushing 7 (i.e.,face 82).

FIG. 5 also depicts collar element 17 utilized to secure an intermediateportion of pole 10 to a second stabilization point on riser 2 of bow100. Collar element 17 functions in a manner comparable to brackets 19and 20 in FIG. 2. The pole stabilization configuration illustrated inFIG. 5 is comparable to Pole Stabilization Configuration No. 2 describedwith reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.

As would be appreciated by those of skill in the art, a supplementalpole stabilization configuration comparable to Pole StabilizationConfiguration No. 1, 2 or 3 can, if desired, be incorporated withmounting system 23, or with any other mounting system described herein.For example, FIGS. 4, 5, 6, 7, and 10 illustrate “side” mounting systemsin which a pole 10 is positioned laterally to one side of riser 2. Polestabilization configurations comparable to Pole StabilizationConfigurations 1, 2 or 3 can, if desired, be utilized in such sidemounting systems. To put a finer point on it, FIGS. 5 and 10 eachillustrate a pole stabilization configuration generally comparable toPole Stabilization Configuration No. 2 discussed above. FIGS. 6 and 7illustrate a pole stabilization configuration generally comparable toPole Stabilization Configuration No. 1 discussed above. And, of course,the pole stabilization configurations in FIGS. 5 and 10 can be combinedwith the pole stabilization configuration in FIGS. 6 and 7 to produce apole stabilization configuration comparable to Pole StabilizationConfiguration No. 3 set forth above.

A supplemental pole stabilization configuration 34 comparable to PoleStabilization Configuration No. 1 described above is illustrated inFIGS. 6 and 7. The mounting system in FIG. 6 includes a bracket assemblyand a monopod support assembly including monopod support element whichis equivalent to the bracket assembly and monopod support assembly ofFIGS. 4 and 5, except that the bracket 24 has, in FIGS. 6 and 7, beenreplaced in FIGS. 6 and 7 by bracket 24A. Bracket 24A is substantiallyidentical to bracket 24 except that (1) internally threaded apertures 83have been formed in bracket 24A to receive externally threaded fasteners36, and (2) aperture 84 has been formed in bracket 24A to reduce theweight of bracket 24A.

The supplemental pole stabilization configuration 34 is comparable toPole Stabilization Configuration No. 1 described above in that itincludes arm 35 with elongate slot 38 formed therein, includes fasteners36, and includes collar element 37. Pole stabilization configuration 34is utilized in conjunction with the mounting system illustrated in FIGS.6 and 7. Pole stabilization configuration 34 also includes fasteners 36and collar element 37. Collar element 37 is fixedly detachably mountedon pole 10 and a fastener is inserted through slot 38 and turned into aninternally threaded aperture formed in collar element 37 in order tosecure the lower end of arm 35 to pole 10. Fasteners 36 are used in themanner noted above to secure the upper end of arm 35 to bracket 24A. Theshape and dimension of arm 35 can vary as desired. Bar 35 presently hasa length in the range of four to sixteen inches, preferably in the rangeof six to fourteen inches. More preferably, the length of bar presentlyis about twelve inches. Bracket 24A is mounted on riser 2 and bushing 7in the same manner as that earlier described for brackets 9 and 24. InFIG. 6, pole 10 is again mounted at one side of an archery bow.

FIG. 7 illustrates how the mounting system of FIG. 6 is affixed to anarchery bow 100 to position pole 10 at one side of bow 100. Fastener 28is inserted through aperture 27 and threaded into internally threadedaperture 68 to secure bracket 24A to bushing 7 of bow 100. When bracket24A is secured to the front of bow 100, perpendicular inner faces(comparable to face pairs 71-72 and 81-82) of bracket 24A contact, areflush with, and are securely maintained in contact with a side surfaceof riser 2, and, with a surface on the front of riser 2 or on bushing 7.

FIG. 8 illustrates a mounting system 39 which is integrated with a bow100 and which includes a bracket assembly including unitary bracket 40provided for integration with an archery bow, and includes a bipodsupport assembly 41 including a pair of support poles 44. Bracket 40 isoperatively associated with the bipod support assembly 41 to mount poles44 on bracket 40.

As can readily be seen with reference to FIGS. 2 and 8, bracket 40 isidentical in structure to bracket 9, except that bracket 9 includes aleg with face 71 whereas bracket 40 does not include such a leg.Elongate slots “e” correspond to slots 63 and 65 in FIG. 2. The ovateaperture formed in portion “a” of bracket 40 corresponds to ovateaperture 13. In one embodiment of the invention, the ovate apertureformed in portion “a” of bracket 40 preferably is not ovate, but iscylindrical. Rectangular slot 93 corresponds to slot 64. Slot 93 extendssubstantially the entire distance along the length of bracket 40represented by bracket “b”.

Orthogonal member 86 includes internally threaded apertures 87 formed ateither end, and includes internally threaded aperture 92 formed in thecenter of member 86. Each such internally threaded aperture 87 receivesone of externally threaded fasteners 47 after fastener 47 is insertedthrough an aperture 88 formed in the associated cylindrical collarelement 45. Each cylindrical collar element 45 is fixedly secured to theupper end of a different one of poles 44 in the same manner thatcylindrical collar element 25 is secured in the upper end of pole 10 inFIG. 6. Aperture 92 receives externally threaded fastener 42 after it isinserted through the aperture in the center of member 85 and throughslot 93.

Fastener 42 in FIG. 8 is identical to fastener 18 and orthogonal member85 in FIG. 8 is identical to member 60 in FIG. 2.

Fastener 42 extends through the aperture formed through the center oforthogonal member 85, through slot 93, and into aperture 92 formed inorthogonal member 86. Consequently, until externally threaded fastenersare inserted through a slot 93 and into internally apertures formed in aside of member 85 to secure member 85 in place in the elongate slot 102extending distance b, member 85 and orthogonal member 86 are free toslide along said elongate slot 102 such that member 86, and thereforepoles 44, can be positioned a desired distance from the front of a bow100.

Each collar element 50 is mounted below the upper end of a leg 44 and onan intermediate portion of a different one of poles 44.

Each fastener 52 extends through an aperture 89 formed at a differentend of support rib 48 and turns into a different one of internallythreaded apertures 91 of collar elements 50.

Bow guide assembly 46 includes collar elements 50, rib 48, fasteners 51and 52, and body bracket 49. Bow guide 46 functions to couple legs 44 toriser 2 of a bow 100 at a second lower point of attachment. Use of bowguide assembly 46 is optional. Guide assembly 46 functions in a mannercomparable to Pole Stabilization Configuration No. 2.

In use of assembly 46, externally threaded fastener 51 is insertedthrough slot 90 in rib 48 and threads into aperture 95 of body bracket49. Body bracket 49 is, to provide a second lower point of attachment toan archery bow, secured to the riser 2 of an archery bow, preferably ator near a limb bolt 3. The first point of attachment occurs when bracket40 is secured to bushing 7 at the front of a bow 100 in the same mannerthat bracket 9 is secured to bushing 7. The second point of attachmentis on the riser 2 and is spaced apart from the first point ofattachment, as is also the case in FIGS. 2, 3, 5, and 10.

Mounting system 39 is attached to the front of an archery bow 100 suchthat legs 44 generally lie in a vertical plane which is generallyparallel to the front of the bow and which is generally perpendicular tothe sides of the bow.

The attachment of mounting system 39 to the front of a bow 100 isillustrated in FIG. 9. Externally threaded fastener 103 extends throughthe ovate aperture 104 in bracket 40 and is threaded into internallythreaded aperture 68 formed in the stabilizer bushing 7 of bow 100 suchthat bow 100 can be rotated independently of bracket 40 about fastener103 and horizontally oriented Axis 1 in the manner indicated by arrowsG, and such that bow 100 and bracket 40 can be swiveled, or rotated,simultaneously about fastener 42 and vertically oriented Axis 2 in themanner indicated by arrows H. Further, bow 100 and legs can besimultaneously tilted forwardly or rearwardly as indicated by arrows Fin FIG. 9. When bracket 40 is secured to the front of bow 100, at leastone face on bracket 40 (or on bracket 9, 24, 24A) contacts, is flushwith, and is securely maintained in contact with at least one surface onthe front of riser 2 or on bushing 7.

In FIG. 10 bracket, or riser boss, 53 is integrated with bow 100 bymolding or otherwise forming bracket 53 together the central riser suchthat bracket 53 comprises a portion of the central riser of bow 100.Bracket 53 is still, as can be seen in FIG. 10, positioned beneath thebow handle.

Bracket, or riser boss, 53 includes an internally threaded aperture 30A(or other desired fastening system) which, in the same manner asaperture 30 in FIGS. 4 to 7, permits a pole 10 to be attached to theside of a bow by utilizing mounting apparatus of the type described inFIGS. 4 to 7 or by utilizing any other desired mounting apparatus.

Bushing 7 includes an internally threaded aperture 68A (or other desiredfastening system) which, in the same manner as aperture 68 in FIG. 3,permits a pole 10 to be attached at the front of a bow 100 by utilizingapparatus of the type described in FIGS. 2, 3, 8, 9 or by utilizing anyother desired mounting apparatus.

A second point of attachment 54 for a pole 10 is also shown in FIG. 10.

The mounting system for bow 100 illustrated in FIG. 10, which mountingsystem includes pole 10, bracket or riser boss 53, and the otherassociated components therewith, is essentially equivalent to themounting system 23 illustrated in FIG. 4, except that fastener 28 is notrequired because bracket 53 is integrated in bow 100 by forming bracket53 as part of the central riser 2. And, any of the various adjust ornon-adjustable configurations of pole 10 can, as is the case of everymounting system described herein, can be utilized in the embodiment ofthe invention illustrated in FIG. 10. If desired, boss 53 is detachablymounted on bow 100.

The mounting system for bow 100 which is illustrated in FIG. 10 alsoincludes lower bracket, or lower rise boss, 54. Lower riser boss 54 isessentially equivalent to the mounting collar element 17 illustrated inFIG. 5, except that a fastener is not, in contrast to collar element 17,required to secure boss 54 to bow 100 because bracket 54 is integratedin bow 100 by forming bracket 54 as part of the central riser 2. Ifdesired, boss 54 is detachably mounted on bow 100.

FIG. 11 illustrates an alternate bracket 24B constructed in accordancewith the invention and including generally orthogonal members 70 and 77.Member 70 includes L-shaped aperture 71 formed therethrough, includesinternally threaded aperture 72, and includes internally threadedaperture 73. Elongate dovetail 74 is slidably received by elongatedovetail-shaped opening 75 formed in member 77. Ovate aperture 76 isformed through member 77. The externally threaded end of aperture 78extends through aperture 76 and turns into an internally threadedaperture (not visible) that extends into dovetail 74. A fastener (notshown) comparable to fastener 28 (FIG. 5) extends through aperture 79and turns into internally threaded aperture 68 of bow 100 to securemember 77 to the front of bow 100. Once member 77 is secured to thefront of bow 100, member 70 can be slidably adjusted with respect tomember 77 by loosening fastener 78 and laterally sliding member 70 suchthat fastener 78 slides along aperture 76 to a desired position. Aftermember 70 and fastener 78 are slid to the desired position, fastener 78is turned into the aperture (not visible) formed in dovetail 74 so thatmember 70 is secured in fixed position with respect to member 77.Monopole 10 is secured to bracket 24B by turning a fastener, for examplefastener 29 in FIG. 4A, into internally threaded aperture 73. The facesof members 70 and 77 of bracket 24B contacts the side and front of riser2 in a manner similar to that of brackets 24 and 24A.

One of reasonable skill in the art understands that all of the aboveexemplary embodiments of this invention can be manufactured frommultiple different materials and that all materials known in the artsuitable for producing all embodiments herein as described above, bothin the detailed description of the invention and in the figures, arecontemplated and taught herein. Preferably, in accordance with thevarious exemplary embodiments of the invention, all of the partsdisclosed herein are produced at least in part from at least one of aplastic, metal, fiberglass, carbon/graphite, nylon, or a ceramicmaterial.

Moreover, unless specifically noted, it is Applicant's intent that thewords and phrases in the specification and the claims be given thecommonly accepted generic meaning or an ordinary and accustomed meaningused by those of reasonable skill in the applicable arts. In theinstance where these meanings differ, the words and phrases in thespecification and the claims should be given the broadest possiblegeneric meaning. If it is intended to limit or narrow these meanings,specific descriptive adjectives will be used.

Absent the use of these specific adjectives, the words and phrases inthe specification and the claims should be given the broadest possiblemeaning. If any other special meaning is intended for any word orphrase, the specification will clearly state and define the specialmeaning.

As used herein, the terms “comprise”, “comprises”, “comprising”,“having”, “including”, “includes”, or any variation thereof are intendedto reference a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method,article, composition or apparatus that comprises a list of elements doesnot include only those elements recited, but can also include otherelements not expressly listed and equivalents inherently known orobvious to those of reasonable skill in the art. Other combinationsand/or modifications of structures, arrangements, applications,proportions, elements, materials, or components used in the practice ofthe instant invention, in addition to those specifically recited, can bevaried or otherwise particularly adapted to specific environments,manufacturing specifications, design parameters or other operatingrequirements without departing from the scope of the instant inventionand are intended to be included in this disclosure.

The use of the words “function”, “means” or “step” in the specificationor claims is not intended to invoke the provisions of 35 USC 112,Paragraph 6, to define the invention. To the contrary , if suchprovisions are intended to be invoked to define the invention, then theclaims will specifically state the phrases “means for” or “step for” anda function. Contrastingly, the intention is NOT to invoke such provisionwhen the claims cite a “means for” or a “step for” performing a functionwith recitation of any structure, material, or act in support of thefunction. If such provision is invoked to define the invention it isintended that the invention not be limited only to the specificstructure, materials, or act that are described in the preferredembodiments, but in addition to include any and all structures,materials, or acts that perform the claimed function, along with any andall know or later-developed equivalent materials, structures, or actsfor performing the claimed function.

1. A portable archery bow apparatus for transport to any of a pluralityof locations to contact the ground at a selected point to providesupport and stability while firing an arrow from the bow apparatus, thebow apparatus comprising I. a portable bow unit comprising (a) a centralriser having (i) an upper portion, (ii) a lower portion, (iii) a frontand a rear, and (iv) a pair of sides; (b) a hand grip on said centralriser, (c) a first upper limb connected to and extending outwardly fromsaid upper portion of said riser; (d) a second lower limb connected toand extending outwardly from said lower portion of said riser; (e)rotatable members each mounted on one of said limbs and selected from agroup consisting of wheels and cams; II. only a single portable groundcontacting support pole to contact the ground to provide stability whilefiring an arrow from said bow unit; and, III. a first mounting bracketbelow said hand grip and intermediate said hand grip and said secondlower limb, said first mounting bracket (i) supporting said portablesupport pole, (ii) fixedly attaching said portable support pole directlyto said central riser and spaced apart from said central riser such thatsaid bow unit and said portable support pole move simultaneously inunison with said portable support pole remaining in fixed orientationwith respect to said bow; and, (iii) providing a first stabilizing fixedpoint of attachment for said portable support pole, such that saidportable support pole is positioned substantially completely beneathsaid hand grip and extends downwardly past said second lower limb.
 2. Aportable archery bow apparatus for transport to any of a plurality oflocations to contact the ground at a selected point to provide supportand stability while firing an arrow from the bow apparatus, the bowapparatus comprising I. a portable bow unit comprising (a) a centralriser having (i) an upper portion, (ii) a lower portion, (iii) a frontand a rear, and (iv) a pair of sides; (b) a hand grip on said centralriser, (c) a first upper limb connected to and extending outwardly fromsaid upper portion of said riser; (d) a second lower limb connected toand extending outwardly from said lower portion of said riser; (e)rotatable members each mounted on one of said limbs and selected from agroup consisting of wheels and cams; II. only a single portable groundcontacting support pole to contact the ground to provide stability whilefiring an arrow from said bow unit; III. a first mounting bracket belowsaid hand grip and intermediate said hand grip and said second lowerlimb, said first mounting bracket (i) supporting said portable supportpole, (ii) fixedly attaching said portable support pole directly to saidcentral riser and spaced apart from said central riser such that saidbow unit and said portable support pole move simultaneously in unisonwith said portable support pole remaining in fixed orientation withrespect to said bow; and, (iii) providing a first stabilizing fixedpoint of attachment for said portable support pole, such that saidportable support pole is positioned substantially completely beneathsaid hand grip and extends downwardly past said second lower limb; and,IV. a pole stabilization configuration comprising an elongate arminterconnecting said support pole and said first mounting bracket.
 3. Aportable archery bow apparatus for transport to any of a plurality oflocations to contact the ground at a selected point to provide supportand stability while firing an arrow from the bow apparatus, the bowapparatus comprising II. a portable bow unit comprising (a) a centralriser having (i) an upper portion, (ii) a lower portion, (iii) a frontand a rear, and (iv) a pair of sides; (b) a hand grip on said centralriser, (c) a first upper limb connected to and extending outwardly fromsaid upper portion of said riser; (d) a second lower limb connected toand extending outwardly from said lower portion of said riser; (e)rotatable members each mounted on one of said limbs and selected from agroup consisting of wheels and cams; II. only a single portable groundcontacting support pole to contact the ground to provide stability whilefiring an arrow from said bow unit; III. a first mounting bracket belowsaid hand grip and intermediate said hand grip and said lower limb, saidmounting bracket (i) supporting said portable support pole, (ii) fixedlyattaching said portable support pole directly to said central riser suchthat said portable support pole is spaced apart from said central riser,and said bow unit and said pole move simultaneously in unison with saidportable support pole remaining in fixed orientation with respect tosaid bow; and, (iii) providing a first stabilizing fixed point ofattachment for said pole such that said portable support pole ispositioned substantially completely beneath said hand grip and extendsdownwardly past said second lower limb; and, IV. a second mountingbracket (i) fixedly attaching said portable support pole directly tosaid lower portion of said central riser at a point below and spacedapart from said first mounting bracket to provide a second fixedstabilizing point of attachment for said pole, and said central riser,such that said bow unit and said portable support pole movesimultaneously in unison, and (ii) providing a second stabilizing fixedpoint of attachment for said portable support pole such that said poleis positioned substantially beneath said hand grip and extendsdownwardly past said second lower limb.
 4. A portable archery bowapparatus for transport to any of a plurality of locations to contactthe ground at a selected point to provide support and stability whilefiring an arrow from the bow apparatus, the bow apparatus comprising I.a portable bow unit comprising (a) a central riser having (i) an upperportion, (ii) a lower portion, (iii) a front and a rear, and (iv) a pairof sides; (b) a hand grip on said central riser, (c) a first upper limbconnected to and extending outwardly from said upper portion of saidriser; (d) a second lower limb connected to and extending outwardly fromsaid lower portion of said riser; (e) rotatable members each mounted onone of said limbs and selected from a group consisting of wheels andcams; II. only a single portable ground contacting support pole tocontact the ground to provide stability while firing an arrow from saidbow unit; Ill. a first mounting bracket below said hand grip andintermediate said hand grip and said lower limb, said mounting bracket(i) supporting said portable support pole, (ii) fixedly attaching saidportable support pole directly to said central riser such that saidportable support pole is spaced apart from said central riser, and saidbow unit and said pole move simultaneously in unison with said portablesupport pole remaining in fixed orientation with respect to said bow;and, (iii) providing for said pole at said first mounting bracket afirst stabilizing fixed point of attachment such that said portablesupport pole is positioned substantially completely beneath said handgrip and extends downwardly past said second lower limb; IV. a polestabilization configuration comprising an elongate arm interconnectingsaid first mounting bracket and said support pole to provide for saidpole at said elongate arm a second fixed stabilizing point ofattachment; V. a second mounting bracket fixedly attaching said elongatearm directly to said lower portion of said central riser at a pointbelow and spaced apart from said first mounting bracket and said centralriser to provide for said arm at said second mounting bracket a thirdfixed stabilizing point of attachment to stabilize said pole such that(i) said bow unit and said portable support pole move simultaneously inunison, and (ii) said pole is positioned substantially beneath said handgrip and extends downwardly past said second lower limb.